With a focus on Grades 9 to 12, the program combines classroom instruction and AI-enabled tools to make English learning accessible across 3,600 government schools
A new chapter in language learning has begun in Punjab’s government schools. The Government of Punjab, in collaboration with EnglishHelper, has introduced a state-wide English language proficiency program designed to reach 750,000 students across 23 districts over a three-year rollout.
Titled The English Edge, the program focuses on Grades 9 to 12 and aims to bridge communication gaps by introducing a blended learning approach that integrates teacher-led instruction with digital learning tools. A total of 3,600 government schools will participate in the initiative, which is being introduced in three structured phases. The first phase, already underway, covers 500 schools and approximately 300,000 students.
The classroom component is anchored by ReadToMe, a curriculum-aligned reading support tool developed by EnglishHelper. Students will also engage in self-learning through a complementary tool known as the Reading and Comprehension Assistant, enabling them to listen, read, and follow content at their own pace a method that supports diverse learning styles and local classroom realities.
The program reflects the priorities of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which calls for stronger foundational literacy, digital access, and equitable education. It also aligns with the state’s broader goals of making students more competitive in national and international job markets where English proficiency plays a crucial role.
According to officials, this is one of Punjab’s most extensive public–private efforts in the education sector. While the Government of Punjab will coordinate rollout and monitoring, the funding for the program is being mobilised through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions and philanthropic support.
EnglishHelper first entered the Punjab education space in 2013 through a pilot program, later expanding under a partnership with USAID in 2015. A formal agreement between the Government and the company was signed in 2021, setting the foundation for this large-scale deployment. Data collected from earlier phases suggests measurable improvements in reading fluency, comprehension, and classroom engagement.
“This initiative focuses on all four core pillars of language acquisition reading, writing, listening, and speaking,” said Deepak Verma, CEO of EnglishHelper. “Through a blend of AI-enabled technology and classroom support, we’re helping students acquire skills that open doors not just to exams, but to meaningful futures.”
Educators in the participating schools will undergo specific training to integrate the tools into their daily lesson plans. The intent is not to replace teachers but to supplement existing practices with structured support that can scale efficiently across the state’s diverse regions.
The decision to concentrate on secondary and senior secondary grades stems from the growing importance of English proficiency in higher education and competitive examinations. Punjab’s school administrators note that demand for English-language skill-building has steadily increased, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns.
By the end of its third phase, The English Edge will cover more than 3,600 schools in every district of Punjab. The program is expected to significantly contribute to literacy goals while also supporting long-term social mobility and employment outcomes.
This effort reflects an evolving model of how public systems and private partners can jointly work toward measurable education reform one that focuses on consistent quality, digital inclusion, and student-centric implementation.
For more information on the initiative and progress updates, the official portal of EnglishHelper provides details on past deployments, learning tools, and program scale.
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